Together we affirm that every person has the opportunity to reach their full potential. We are committed to creating and cultivating a safe environment where all individuals feel respected and valued equally.
J.E.D.I.
OUR COMMITMENT TO J.E.D.I.
At Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Blue Ridge, justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) is an integral part of our values and mission. We recognize, affirm, and celebrate the diverse backgrounds, lives, and experiences of all of our stakeholders, including youth, families, donors, volunteers, and staff. We ensure the opportunity for all voices and perspectives to be heard and honored. In the workplace, we foster an environment where all people can be their best selves. We affirm that every person [regardless of ability, age, cultural background, ethnicity, faith, gender, gender identity, gender expression, ideology, income, national origin, race or sexual orientation, marital or veteran status] has the opportunity to reach their full potential. We strive to realize the full potential that is within all of us by ensuring that all voices and perspectives are heard and honored.
OUR JUSTICE, EQUITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION FOCUS
It’s not enough to say we are committed to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. We have to work intentionally and diligently to bring about change in our organization and our communities. To ignite the potential of all young people, we have to ensure all young people have the opportunity to have a strong mentoring relationship in their lives. We are actively working to promote justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion throughout our organization, and there are several initiatives that illustrate this commitment.
TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
In 2019, we began an intensive training program for local agency staff and leaders on JEDI. At our annual National Conference in 2019, we focused specifically on these issues to ensure our entire network has access to the information and guidance it needs to become more equitable and effective. In 2021, thanks to our various corporate and foundation partners, we will be launching a new JEDI Curriculum that will be accessible for all levels of the organization: Staff, Board, Families, and Volunteers.
The work around our justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives is thanks to a cohort of many stakeholders spearheaded by the Nationwide Leadership Council (NLC) DEI Committee and Big Brothers Big Sisters of America DEI Champions Committee.